Increasing income to help with debt | Scotland

Increasing income

If you are struggling to pay your debts, looking for ways to increase your income is important as it may help you find more money to put towards your repayments.

If you are worried about your level of debt, make sure you get free, professional debt help as soon as possible.

In the meantime, the information below gives you ideas on ways to increase your income.

Benefits

Check you are claiming all the benefits you are entitled to. If you are finding it difficult to meet your payments and would like some information about which benefits you are entitled to, please call our Helpline. One of our specialist benefit advisors will be able to help you.

Get a second job

Look for an additional job where you could work part time to help increase your income. Or you could try to increase your hours at work, some companies will offer paid overtime.

Ask for board

If you have adult children living with you, ask them to make monthly payments towards the cost of running the home.

Check your tax band

Make sure that you are paying the right amount of tax. Check your tax code and make sure that you are claiming any tax credits you are entitled to.

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FAQs

How can I find out what benefits I can claim?

You may be entitled to some Government benefits to help increase your income. You could speak to your local benefits office or visit Turn 2 Us, a website with a benefits calculator. If you are struggling with debts and would like advice on benefits please call our helpline. One of our specialist advisors will be able to check what you are entitled to.

Can I appeal if I have had my application for a benefit turned down?

If you have applied for a benefit and been turned down you can appeal. You normally need to appeal within one month of the decision being made. You should write to the benefit office that turned down your application and ask them to look at your situation again.

I am self employed. Can I still claim benefits?

If you are self employed you can claim benefits. Depending on the benefit you are applying for the Government may want to see your accounts. Some benefits are dependent on the amount of National Insurance contributions you have made.